It was a solitary reef in the midst of the ocean.
Just this and nothing more. So far as offering an asylum or means of rescue to the explorers, this was out of the question.
It would not be even safe for them to remain upon the reef long.
For a stiff gale was threatening, and they could hardly hope to cling to the reef without harm.
Not a sail was in sight. Neither was there much likelihood that this was in the path of sailing vessels, else it would have been marked with a buoy.
All drew themselves out of the water and stood for a time upon the submerged reef looking blankly around.
They removed their helmets, and for the first time in many weeks took a breath of pure air.
“Well, this is not just what we expected, is it?” said Frank.
“Well, hardly,” growled Bell. “I tell you luck is against me.”
“Against you?” asked Von Bulow.